Plant-based phytoestrogens for female hair loss prevention
Innovative plant-based phytoestrogens modulate estrogen pathways in hair follicle cells to prevent hair loss during menopause. Utilizing botanicals like Pueraria mirifica, the research aims to create consumer health products validated through high-throughput screening and mass spectrometry.
Overview
This research focuses on developing plant-based phytoestrogens that can modulate estrogen pathways in human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) to prevent hair loss, particularly during menopause. By leveraging botanicals with known estrogenic activity, such as Pueraria mirifica and Ashwagandha, the study aims to create new consumer health products that bridge traditional botanical applications with scientific validation.
Technical specifications
The research employs high-throughput screening and mass spectrometry to identify active phytoestrogen compounds. Key procedures include:
- Cell Culture and Treatment: HFDPCs are cultured under optimal conditions and treated with plant extracts at various concentrations.
- Assays: Use of reporter gene assays for estrogen receptor activation, qPCR and RNA-Seq for gene expression analysis, and standard assays for cell viability.
- Mass Spectrometry: Metabolome profiling and quantitation of estrogenic compounds are conducted.
- Data Analysis: Pathway enrichment studies to identify promising candidates for hair loss prevention.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated in a lab setting with ongoing efforts to screen plant-derived phytoestrogens and evaluate their efficacy in modulating estrogen pathways. Future steps involve collaboration with experts in mass spectrometry and plant science for comprehensive evaluation and further development into consumer health products.
About Western University
Western University is a comprehensive public research university in London, Ontario, with a full spectrum of professional and research programs and a strong culture of partnership with industry. Companies engage through co-located labs and shared core facilities, a research and technology park with industry tenancy, and advanced prototyping testbeds that enable scale-up. Integration with major hospital systems and affiliated research institutes supports clinical translation and trials, while co-op and internship pathways provide reliable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive funding from NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and a dedicated technology transfer office offers IP strategy, licensing, and startup support.
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